Chapter 13

The next morning, after breakfast, Michel said goodbye to Nikita and her family and headed back towards his parents' farm. He had tenderly kissed Nikita's lips in farewell and promised that he'd be back early the next day to take her to see the priest before Mass. He quietly talked to Belinda too and told her that there was a social after church, and asked that she and the rest of the family come to the early service as well in order to meet his family there.

Home was just a few miles away, and Michel covered the distance quickly riding his father's prized Canadien stallion. Michel had left Luc in Walter's barn when the Michel and Walter had set out for Montreal. Michel smiled, admiring the gentle, sturdy animal. Luc was a magnificent black beast, with a good gait, and conformation, which gave him more strength than other horses many pounds heavier. The stallion's head was broad, his ears far apart; his frame stout, his breast full, and his strong shoulders slanted and close coupled. Just before leaving Walter's house today, Walter had asked Michel to see if his Papa would give his permission to breed Walter's favorite mare to Luc. Michel was sure it would be okay. Papa liked Walter and rarely denied a neighbour anything.

Michel arrived at his parents' farm to find his sisters, twelve-year-old Celine and ten-year-old Gabrielle hanging up the family's laundry on the clothesline in the backyard. After attending to Luc in the barn, Michel led him into the pasture and set the beast loose to graze. Then he quickly headed towards the house. He lovingly greeted his sisters as he went by them; fondly ruffling their long, wavy auburn tresses and tickling the youngest. He left both of them laughing as he continued on his way to the house. Once inside, he found his Maman, standing at the kitchen table securing the lid on the last of the many jars of strawberry jam in front of her.

His youngest sister, eight-year-old Monique was also watching Maman carefully. Monique was perched on a stool behind her mother next to the cook stove and was sticking her fingers into the empty, unwashed jam pot. As soon as he saw what she was doing, Michel grinned. He knew that Monique would be in trouble if Maman caught her, so he didn't say a word. As she tasted the deep red, sweet concoction on her fingers, Monique heard the door open and guiltily looked up from under her dark, brown wavy hair to see who had caught her. Michel grinned at his favorite sister and then winked, sending her into a fit of giggles.

"La bonne mere de matin. J'ai des nouvelles merveilleuses -- Good morning mother. I have wonderful news." Michel said softly as he approached his mother and gently kissed her cheek.

As always, he noted that his mother was a beautiful woman even after seven children and the hardships of the farm. Her long, wavy dark hair was barely touched by gray and her figure was as trim as a young girl. She was a petite woman who carried herself with a patrician grace.

Madeleine Samuelle raised her deep brown eyes from her task. She wiped her hands on the damp cloth that she'd used to clean the outside of the jam jars and then carefully dried her hands on her white apron. Then, brushing her long dark brown hair out of her eyes, she smiled at her eldest son.

"Welcome home, Michel. What news do you have?" she quietly inquired. "Did you see Marie yesterday? Is she well? Is she happy?"

"Yes to all your questions, Maman. Marie couldn't be happier and she is well. I am happy now too, Maman. I need to talk to you about my news. It is very important."

Madeleine regarded her eldest son with mild suspicion and saw that his eyes were gleaming. She smiled back at him, while watching his handsome face carefully. His normally reserved expression was gone and he looked like he could hardly contain his joy.

I am happy NOW, too' he had said. Hmmm. He'd only been gone one day. What could have happened to him in such a short time?' She didn't know what was the cause of this happiness' , but she was determined to find out.

First things first, though. The Samuelle family made it a habit to discuss things between the parents and children as privately as possible. That meant Monique would have to be sent outside to give Michel that courtesy. Madeleine looked over at her youngest daughter and sighed. Just as she had expected, Monique had a jam streaked face and gooey fingers.

"Monique," Madeleine sternly said, "Go and wash yourself up and then go help your sisters. I wish to talk to Michel alone. Now child, allez rapidement -- go quickly!!"

Monique grinned mischievously at her adored brother and blew him a kiss, and then she quickly scampered to obey their mother.

When she had left, Madeleine turned to Michel and said. "Now, Michel. Sit down and tell me what makes you so very happy."

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Madeleine cleared the kitchen table and gestured for Michel to sit down. He sat down next to her and carefully folded his hands on top of the table. She looked at him expectantly and waited for him to speak. When he did, what he said left her speechless.

"Maman, I've come to a couple of decisions. It's time for me to use that land grandfather Samuelle left me. I'm going to build a house on it. Also, I need to have that ring grandmother Samuelle left me." Michel stated, his eyes sparkling.

Madeleine paled for a moment, and then found her voice once again. "You're not considering marriage to that dreadful Elena Lapierre are you? You don't have to marry her , Michel. She'll make your life unbearable. You see how she manipulates her poor Papa, now that her Maman's dead. May God rest her soul." Madeleine crossed herself quickly. "There are lots of other beautiful, sweet girls in the parish."

"I know you're right about Elena, so don't worry, Maman. I'd sooner become a priest than marry that one. No, I am going to marry someone else. She's new to the parish, but I just know you'll adore her as much as I do." Michel said his eyes dancing with amusement.

"Someone new? Who are you talking about, my son? " Madeleine was puzzled.

"Her name is Nikita O'Hara. She's Walter's niece. Walter went to Montreal with me yesterday because his widowed sister-in-law and her two children were arriving there from Ireland. You'll adore Nikita, Maman. She's beautiful; truly beautiful, both inside and out. She's so modest that she doesn't even know that she is beautiful. In fact, when I told her she was beautiful, she couldn't seem to believe it! It's amazing, Maman! There's a genuine 'bonte9 -a goodness' about her that I can't describe. We talked a lot in the wagon on the way home from Montreal. She worries about her little brother and if he'll be happy here; and she worries about her mother's happiness, but she doesn't seem to worry about if she'll be happy, or even to question if she should be. She is truly one of the most selfless people I have ever met."

Madeleine listened intently. Michel was a good judge of people and rarely was wrong about them. If this Nikita were trying to deceive him about her character, she'd have to be very clever and very deceitful. Michel had an instinct about these things.

"Marie told me yesterday morning that she dreamed that I'd meet and marry an angel. Did I ever laugh when she said that. I think I offended her, but you know Marie, Maman; she didn't let on that I had. When she told me that I'd marry an angel, I dismissed it as Marie's usual "religious" talk."

Michel watched his mother nod in agreement.

"And you know me, Maman. I'm a practical person, not a fanciful one. Angels don't walk on the earth. Talk like that is for 'religious' people like Marie and Uncle Philippe."

Again, Madeleine nodded in agreement.

"That's what I've always thought, that is until today when I met Nikita. In that moment-as soon as I saw her--all my doubts about angels vanished and I knew she was the one for me. Maman, 'angels' may not walk the earth, but Nikita is as close to being an angel as anyone you will ever meet. I've already asked Walter for permission to court her, and she's accepted me as her suitor. In fact, she's accepted me as her betrothed. She's promised to go and see Father Dupree with me early on Sunday morning to make it official."

Madeleine stared at Michel, studying her favorite child intently. Her normally quiet and sensible son had been transformed right before her eyes into a smiling, exuberant person who was babbling about angels. What had come over him? Love? In one day? This Nikita must be very special indeed.' She'd never seen Michel's entire face light up with such happiness.

It occurred to her then, that Michel looked just like his father Paul had looked when they first met. Hmmm. She had to be sure, though.

"Mon fils- my son, are you sure you haven't taken leave of your senses? You've just met this girl. She's Irish? Can she speak French at all? What is her family background? How old is she?

Michel just grinned at the barrage of questions. "Oui , Maman, I am sure. And no, I haven't taken leave of my senses, I promise you. I never thought I'd want to get married-or feel this way, but I do. Now I understand why none of the girls around here have ever appealed to me as a potential wife. I've been waiting for this one special girl-for Nikita. I love her and she says she loves me too. Marie was right. God has sent me an angel and I feel like the luckiest man alive!"

"To answer your questions Maman, first of all, Nikita is almost seventeen. In fact, her mother Belinda told me that Nikita's birthday is next week on Tuesday. She speaks French fluently--the nuns in the convent school she went to taught it to her. Her Papa had a horse farm near Dublin before he died. Her little sister died on the way here but her mother and younger brother survived the journey. Maman, they are such nice people that they've already made me feel like I'm a part of their family. Be happy for me!!"

"Michel" Madeleine started to say, but Michel cut her off with an impatient wave of his hand and a smile.

"No. Before you question me any further, I need to ask you something Maman. Please be honest with me. When you met Papa, how long did it take before you knew he was the man for you?"

Madeleine blushed and then grinned back at Michel and sheepishly admitted, "About ten minutes. He will tell you the same thing, too"

Michel laughed. "Then you understand, oui ? I told her that I'd pick her up in the wagon early tomorrow morning to take her to Mass. That's why I want grandmother's ring. I want to present it to her before the service in front of Father Dupree so that we can become betrothed. Walter's bringing the rest of the family to Mass in his wagon. You can meet her and her family at church and you'll see what I mean. Maman. I just know you're going to love her. I know the whole family will!"

After speaking to his Maman, Michel bounded the stairs to his room, where he hurriedly changed into his work clothes. Then he joined his Papa and his brothers Pierre and Claude in the field a mile down the road from the house. Michel had seen them working there earlier. The men remained there for the rest of the day, bringing in the first cut of hay. It was hard work, cutting and gathering a field full of hay by hand. Paul and his sons were glad that Celine and Gabrielle brought them a picnic lunch later in the day. By dusk, they had finished storing the hay in the barn and the whole family had all gathered together at home for their evening meal.

The family had much to catch up at dinner that evening. Michel didn't say anything to his siblings about Nikita and neither did Madeleine, except to say that he had "news". Paul Samuelle's green eyes kept looking at Michel expectantly, but he knew better than to try and rush his eldest son into saying what was on his mind. Sixteen-year-old Pierre and fourteen-year-old Claude questioned Michel about Montreal and Marie and he was pleased to answer that Marie was happy and sent all of them her love.

Celine and Gabrielle seemed to know intuitively that something else was different with their handsome elder brother and kept teasing him, trying to unearth his secret. Only Monique didn't bother him, but sat staring at him adoringly with her large green eyes. He felt himself blushing because of all the attention, but he wouldn't relent and let them know what was going on.

Let them find out tomorrow when they meet Nikita,' he thought. Ils fera jamais est etonne--Will they ever be surprised!'

Later, after dinner and after all the evening chores had been done, Michel asked to speak to both of his parents alone. Michel requested that they sit together in the family parlor and then he proceeded to tell his father what his mother had heard earlier. Paul was delighted. He trusted his son's judgment completely. He clearly remembered falling in love with his Madeleine at first sight, so he was not shocked at the suddenness of Michel's decision. This Nikita had to be special. His felt that Michel was a sensible young man. Therefore, any girl who had affected him so deeply and so quickly had to be the one for him. Paul was also relieved that that girl Elena wouldn't be Michel's wife. No man wanted une megere' --a shrew--for a wife, and that one, in his opinion was a shrew already.

Michel waited for his father to digest his good news and then turned to his mother, who was sitting next to his father, with a sad expression on his face.

"Maman, I'm afraid I also have some bad news for you. It pains me to be the one to give you grief. That's why I waited until now so that Papa could comfort you."

Madeleine paled. "What is it Michel?"

When I was visiting at the convent yesterday, Uncle Philippe told Marie and I that Uncle Etienne died. I'm sorry for the loss of your brother, Maman." Michel said. "The funeral was last week. Grandfather Bouchard refused to let you know earlier. I'm so sorry."

Madeleine eyes widened in shock and she cried out, sobbing as she clutched at her husband's arm. She turned her suddenly tear streaked face towards Paul's broad chest and his muscular arms automatically wrapped around her. She had loved her brother Etienne dearly even though she hadn't seen him a lot since she'd married Paul.

Papa still hasn't forgiven me for marrying Paul. It's been over twenty years now. He doesn't even know Paul or any of my children either. Paul's not wealthy, but he is a wonderful husband and father; and I love him. How can Papa continue to be so unfair?' Madeleine wondered. 'Social status is more important to him than I am.' These thoughts made her extremely sad.

Madeleine struggled to concentrate as Michel continued, "Maman, Uncle Etienne obviously didn't like the decision your Papa made about your marriage and his decision to cut you out of your family's fortunes. I believe that Uncle Etienne found a way around grandfather Bouchard's decision that you would not inherit any of your family's money."

Paul looked at his son quizzically and enquired, "What do you mean, Michel?"

Michel looked at his father and said, "Uncle Etienne left me half of his personal wealth Papa. Plus, he also left me several hundred shares in The Hudson's Bay Company. The other half of his wealth, he left to his daughters. The business will remain theirs and their husbands and they will continue to run it. Uncle Philippe has already made sure that this money is in a bank account for my use and the shares have been transferred to my name.

I believe that what Uncle Etienne really did was leave all this wealth to you Maman. It's just that under the law he couldn't do it openly. With your permission I will use some of this money to build a house for Nikita and I; and then manage the rest of it for all of the family. I intend to farm the land and raise horses with Nikita's help. Are you both agreeable to this use of the money?"

Paul and Madeleine looked at each other. Paul spoke for the two of them. "We are content with what we have Michel. Use the money to look after your future bride. Have you told her about it?"

"No, not yet." Michel said. "I wanted to make sure she loves me, not some money I've been left. As of now, I've told Walter and both of you, but no one else. I've asked Walter not to tell anyone else. I will tell Nikita when I feel it is the right time. Is that alright with both of you?"

Both of his parents smiled at him. They had always been sure that Michel was a wise young man, but this confirmed it.

"D'accord," they both said in unison.

Paul stood up and embraced his son warmly and then said, "I'm proud of you, son. That was a wise decision. Look to your future with Nikita, and help your brothers and sisters if they really need it. That will be enough for us.

"Now, let's all get some sleep. We're both looking forward to meeting your "angel" at Mass tomorrow."

Chapter 14

Sunday morning found Michel pulling into Walter's laneway in the small, black-canopied buggy that his mother favored for her excursions throughout the village of St. Cecile when she did her shopping. Her favorite black mare, Gisele, was pulling it.

It was very early, but Nikita had assured him that she would be ready at seven in order to go visit the priest with him before the eight o'clock Mass. Walter was sitting on the porch when he arrived, dressed in his Sunday finery, and greeted Michel warmly.

"Top o' the morning to you, Michel. I take it that you've told your family about Nikita?" Walter asked.

"Bonjour Walter. No, not all the family. Only Maman and Papa. They can't wait to meet her," said Michel grinning broadly. "I can't wait to see how surprised the rest of them will be."

"Michel, don't you think you should warn Nikita about Elena before they meet?" Walter queried. "You know what a scene that girl can make when she doesn't get her own way."

"You're probably right Walter. I'll tell Nikita on the way to church." Michel responded soberly.

"Good," Walter said. "I'll go get her. I know she's ready. I saw her come downstairs when I came out here ten minutes ago."

Walter disappeared into the house while Michel waited patiently in the buggy. He too was dressed in his Sunday clothes and he carefully patted his jacket pocket to make sure that his grandmere's ring was still there. After assuring himself that it was, he sat smiling, remembering that Maman had insisted that he take her buggy to escort Nikita to church in today. It was the nicest wagon they owned and Michel had been touched that she would allow it. Normally, no one but her was allowed to use it.

Take my buggy to pick up Nikita, Michel. Betrothed qui devenant est une etape serieuse--Becoming betrothed is a serious step. It is important that the two of you have some privacy to talk before you meet with Father Dupree. The family' , she had said patting his arm fondly will come together later in the large wagon as we always do' .

Michel's reverie was interrupted when he heard the door open and looked up to see his angel smiling down at him. She was a vision in pale blue, a modest creation with a high rounded neckline edged with lace and full, softly flowing skirt. She carried a small white leather-covered Bible and a slightly larger drawstring cloth handbag in the same shade as her dress. Nikita wore short white gloves that met the long tapered sleeves of her dress perfectly. Around her neck was a dainty, gold crucifix. Her long, bright hair was neatly coiled in a chignon and on her head she wore a headscarf of cream-colored Irish lace. All ladies wore hair coverings like that to attend church, but Michel had never seen one so delicate.

He jumped out of the buggy and walked up the front porch steps to meet her.

"Bonjour chere," he whispered against her lips as he kissed her tenderly. "You are breathtaking. Come."

"Good morning Michel," Nikita breathed back after their lips parted. "You look wonderful too."

Nikita gazed at Michel appreciatively. He was extremely handsome in his black Sunday suit, under which he wore an open necked, collarless white shirt. A gold chain holding a gleaming crucifix nestled there softly against his tanned skin. His hair was a little tousled from the drive from his parent's farm, and tendrils of wavy auburn hair curled around his forehead and neck. He was grinning at her so sweetly, that she felt her heart lurch in response.

Michel offered Nikita his arm to lean on and they descended the stairs in unison. He gallantly handed her up into the buggy; making sure to tuck the hem of her beautiful dress inside for her. Then he walked around the back of the buggy and got into the buggy next to her.

Just then Belinda and Seymour came out on the porch. They were also dressed up, although Belinda was still wearing a good deal of black. The two of them waved goodbye to the young couple.

Michel briefly wondered why Nikita wasn't wearing black too, since her sister had just died and her Papa had died not that long ago as well. He glanced over at her blue dress and realized it wasn't new. The sleeves were just a bit short, although it was clean and still fashionable.

She probably has had this dress for some time, and perhaps she couldn't afford another one for Sunday, especially after her Papa died.' He thought sadly. Then he silently vowed, When we're married, my angel, I'll buy you whatever clothes you want. You will have the best of everything I can possibly give you. I will do the same for our children. Our children' Michel's heart swelled at the thought of that pleasant prospect, and turned his attention back to driving Gisele.

Michel drove the wagon along the shaded country road at a sedate pace before he began what he hoped would not be an unpleasant talk.

"Nikita, do you remember me telling you yesterday that none of the girls around here appealed to me?" he said softly.

"Yes, Michel I remember. Why are you telling me this again?" Nikita looked at him with a puzzled look on her beautiful face.

"Well, there's one who has appealed to me the least of all of them. Actually not very many people around here do like her. Her name is Elena Lapierre, and she lives on the farm next to ours. She's been chasing me for a few years although I've never encouraged her. In fact, I've tried to discourage her quite a few times but without success. She's beautiful, but she's what Walter calls "bossy". She's been spoiled by her Papa and is used to getting her own way. She's made it very clear that I'm what she wants and she expects me to marry her." Michel said shaking his head ruefully. "Every time she sees me she hangs all over me and embarrasses me. I'm telling you this because it has never been true-I've never been the least bit interested in her--and so that you'll be prepared for her reaction when she finds out later today that I want to marry you and not her. I can almost promise you that it won't be pleasant."

Michel was almost afraid to hear her response. Would she be upset?

Nikita just smiled. "Michel, thank you for the warning and for being so honest. I can understand why she'd want you, but I'm not worried about this Elena. I know you love me and that's all that matters. We'll deal with anything that she might do together, my love."

Michel smiled back at her. My love' , she'd called him. I know you love me and that's all that matters,' she'd said. It was too perfect. Michel's heart soared and he made a soft clicking sound with his tongue to encourage Gisele to increase her pace. Michel was even more pleased when Nikita tucked her delicate, gloved hands into the crook of his arm and snuggled up against his side, resting her head on his shoulder with a small sigh.

Michel inhaled the sweet scent of lilacs that surrounded his beloved. He was overcome with a wave of desire for this woman that was so strong that he trembled. He suddenly wished very much they were to be wed today, instead of just betrothed.

How,' he wondered, am I ever going to be able to wait for an entire year for this angel to be my wife?'

Chapter 15

Along the way, Michel told Nikita about the good Father Dupree. They also had talked about other pleasant things and found, to their mutual delight, that they thought alike in so many ways. Their expectations of life were similar too.

When they arrived at the church rectory, Michel hopped out of the buggy and tied Gisele to the fence that surrounded the church property and then walked around to Nikita's side of the buggy. Nikita stood up in the buggy and turned towards Michel. He grabbed her small waist firmly, and Nikita placed her hands carefully on his broad shoulders. Then Michel lifted her in his strong arms to assist her descent to the ground, while deliberately brushing her against himself.

They could feel each other trembling and Michel saw the heated look he gave Nikita reflected shyly in her eyes as well. Once Nikita was safely on her feet in front of him, the two young people looked deeply into each other's eyes, and smiled at each other again.

Michel glanced rapidly from Nikita's eyes to her lips and then back again. Slowly, Michel tipped his head towards her and kissed her lips gently. Nikita blushed and smiled sweetly. Michel smiled back and chuckling softly, kissed the tip of her nose as well. Then Michel released his grip on Nikita's slim waist and together they turned and hand in hand, approached the priest's residence.

It was still early enough that most people hadn't arrived for Mass yet, as Michel knocked softly on the door to the priest's home. Father Rene Dupree's elderly housekeeper greeted Michel at the door, hugging him affectionately. After being introduced to Nikita, Madame Doucette hugged her too and ushered them into the parlor to wait. Madame Doucette then disappeared for a minute. When she returned, she said that Father Dupree would see them in his study for a few minutes. They followed her into another room in the house that was furnished with a huge desk and several comfortable chairs.

Nikita sat down gracefully in one of the red leather high backed chairs and Michel stood behind her waiting for the priest to appear. They did not have long to wait. Father Dupree had long looked upon Michel Samuelle as a favorite nephew. The young man had always been there to help him with things that his old bones were too tired to do anymore. He was delighted when Madame Doucette had knocked on his door to tell him that Michel had brought a new girl to see him-a beautiful Irish girl-who would be his future bride. He couldn't wait to meet her. Michel, he knew, was a very cautious and serious young man. If he was willing to take such an important step as betrothal, Father Dupree knew that this young lady would be very special.

Father Dupree had heard that Walter O'Hara's widowed sister-in-law and her children were coming from Ireland to live him and his lovely wife Simone. This girl Michel had brought here today must be one of those children. Upon entering his study, the priest found that he wasn't in the least disappointed. Standing before him with Michel was the most beautiful of all God's children that he had ever seen. Her beauty was innocent and delicate, but decidedly sensual at the same time. Father Dupree detected an inner strength to this girl as well.

A "wild Irish rose" ' he thought. He could understand how this young woman had affected Michel so deeply. For Michel's sake, I hope that her temperament is as attractive as her looks,' thought the priest.

"Good morning Michel. How are you today, my son?" Father Dupree inquired.

"Tres bien Father, merci. Et tu ? May I present Nikita O'Hara, my intended bride. Nikita is Walter and Simone's niece from Ireland. We've come here today to ask for your blessing and to become betrothed in your presence as is the custom." Michel said.

"Wonderful, my son. Nikitachild, it is so nice to meet you," said the priest. "Please, Michel, Nikita, sit down." The good priest gestured towards two of the chairs next to his desk. When the two young people had seated themselves comfortably, Father Dupree sat behind his desk and folded his hands upon the top.

Then Father Dupree leaned forward and confided conspiratorially to the lovely girl in front of him, "Your uncle and I are great friends. I often come to visit him to play checkers and his lovely wife takes pity on this poor old man, feeding him very well. I look forward to getting to know you and the rest of your family."

"I'm very pleased to meet you Father Dupree. Michel has told me so many nice things about you," said Nikita in her softly accented voice. "I shall look forward to getting to know you better when you come to visit us."

Father Dupree heard that voice, looked into those azure eyes and was instantly charmed.

'Mon Dieu!! Now You let angels walk the earth,' he thought.

The young woman before him was sweet and shy, beautiful and graceful. Father Dupree realized that her beauty wasn't just outward either. It radiated from within her like the sun.

No wonder Michel has been captured by her,' he thought.

Father Dupree looked at his young friend and saw love, happiness and pride reflected in Michel's gaze as the young man watched Nikita talk to him. It was, however, when the beautiful blond looked over at Michel that Father Dupree saw all those feelings magnified many times over in her magnificent blue eyes.

The child doesn't see herself as the beauty, she sees Michel as the beautiful one,' the good priest realized in amazement. She is indeed a rare jewel.'

Father Dupree watched the pleasant interplay between the two young people as they sat before him with their fingers softly intertwined. Michel kept glancing over at Nikita with a gentle, loving expression on his face as he quietly explained that they were in love and wished to marry even though had just met. As the priest watched the two young people, he couldn't help noticing that they seemed to be able to communicate with just a glance. It was incredible, and Father Dupree had to admit to himself that never seen his young friend look this happy.

There is love here for certain,' the priest thought. These thoughts and the looks the two young people exchanged with each other, reassured the good priest that Michel had made a wise choice. After some minutes of quiet observation then, the priest finally broke his silence by turning to Michel and speaking.

"Michel. did you bring a ring, my son?" the priest asked at last.

"Oui , Father. My grandmother left it to me for this day. I wish she were alive to meet Nikita. She would have loved her, don't you think?" Michel stated softly.

Nikita smiled lovingly at Michel and blushed. Father Dupree was charmed even more.

Michel is a lucky young man,' the priest decided.

"Yes, my son, she would have indeed." the priest responded. "Give the ring to me please, Michel."

Michel handed Father Dupree the gimmel ring. It was a delicate and intricate piece of gold jewelry that had beautiful engraving on it, with the word "l'amore" etched in flowing script on all sides. All of them stood up and the priest carefully separated the ring into the three flat hoops that it consisted of. Then he placed all three of them in a row on the Bible in his hands.

Each piece of the gimmel ring symbolized the marriage that Michel and Nikita would later enter. After blessing both of the young people before him, the priest blest the three parts of the ring. Then, he gave two pieces of the ring to Michel. Nikita removed her left glove and held it in her right hand. Michel took her left hand and placed one of the pieces on her fourth finger. It fit her perfectly.

Just like it had been made for her,' Michel thought.

When he'd completed his task, Michel held her hand for a minute and kissed each of her fingers gently, repeating the act on her fourth finger. All through this, he was looking deeply into her eyes. Then he turned his attention to the other piece of the ring that he held. It was too small even for Michel's little finger, so he carefully put it on the chain that held the crucifix around his neck. Father Dupree would keep the third piece, which would symbolize the presence of Christ in their marriage, in a safe place until the day they were wed. Then all three pieces would be united once more and worn by the bride. Thus, the ring would symbolize the unity of husband, wife and Christ in their marriage.

The priest motioned for Michel and Nikita to kneel on the carpeted floor before him.

"Do you Michel, promise before God to be faithful to your love for Nikita; honoring, respecting and cherishing her as your future wife?" asked the priest.

Michel nodded solemnly, crossing himself. "Yes, Father, before God I promise this."

Father Dupree turned then to Nikita and asked her, "Nikita, do you promise before God to be faithful to your love for Michel; honoring, respecting and cherishing him as your future husband?"

Nikita smiled, crossed herself and softly answered, "Yes, Father, before God I promise this with all my heart."

"I want to read something for you both from the scriptures," said Father Dupree, as he opened his Bible to the New Testament and solemnly read:

d Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I have become as a sounding brass or a clanging cymbal.

And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.

And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, but have not love, it profits me nothing.

Love suffers long and is kind; love does not envy; love does not parade itself, is not puffed up; does not behave rudely, does not seek its own, is not provoked, thinks no evil; love does not rejoice in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.'

"May these words become those you both will live by," the Father Dupree softly said. He could think of no greater blessing.

Then, Father Dupree made the sign of the cross over both Michel and Nikita again and said, "In Nomeni Patri, Fili et Spiritus Sancti-In the Name of The Father, The Son and The Holy Spirit. May God bless you and keep you both. Go in peace, my children."

**************************************************

It was almost time for Mass to begin and they could all hear the sounds of the local villagers arriving outside. Michel and Nikita thanked Father Dupree for his blessings and said goodbye to Madame Doucette. Then they quietly left the rectory to enter the church along with the other parishioners.

Walter, Simone, Belinda and Seymour had arrived a few minutes earlier, and were seated in the O'Hara's usual pew. Michel and Nikita sat down next to them. Father Dupree entered the church, proceeding to the front as usual. Before beginning the service, the good priest smiled down at Walter and all his family. People noticed the new arrivals, of course, and that Michel Samuelle was sitting with them instead of with his own family as he usually did. The Samuelle's were all there, but on the opposite side of the church as they always were.

The Samuelle family was just as curious as the rest of the congregation about the blond beauty that Michel was sitting with. Paul and Madeleine shared secret smiles and nodded their approval to each other. Their son had excellent taste. Even from where they sat they could tell that this beautiful girl was shy and sweet, just by the adoring glances she was giving their attentive son.

Michel's siblings were squirming in the pews with their curiosity. Celine was the closest to her parents, and she couldn't stand the suspense.

"Maman," Celine whispered, "who is that Michel is sitting with?"

"That's Walter and Simone's niece from Ireland. Her name is Nikita O'Hara. Your brother has become betrothed to her today," Madeleine responded.

"She's very beautiful, Maman," Celine whispered back, her doe-brown eyes widening in surprise. She was stunned at the suddenness of her brother's decision.

Michel has decided this so suddenly?' Celine mused. My brother? He's known her what? Maybe all of three days? This is incredible! Michel usually thinks things through so much that it takes him "forever" to arrive at any decision. Oh!! I can't believe how happy he looks! I've never seen him smile like that!! I'm so glad he's found someone to loveand thank you God that it is not Elena!'

"Oui , Celine, she is. Now hush, child and pay attention to Father Dupree. You can talk to your brother and Nikita later." Madeleine admonished.

Celine couldn't contain herself though, and whispered the good news all down the line to all of her siblings. None of them could wait for the service to be over.

Mass began and ended on schedule as always. It didn't take long after the service ended for the gossips to get busy. It was of course, inevitable that a beautiful, young stranger to the parish like Nikita would be noticed almost immediately. Everyone had noticed that she and two other strangers had been sitting with Walter and Simone during Mass. There was speculation that these were the relatives that Walter had been awaiting from Ireland. The fact that this young woman clung possessively to Michel Samuelle's arm did not escape the notice of the gossips either.

Minutes after everyone exited the church, the Samuelle family crowded around Michel and Nikita in the church courtyard. Already this lovely girl charmed them. Michel's siblings were milling around them teasing him about surprising them with a "new sister". Nikita was delighted that Michel's prediction about his family accepting her seemed to be true. Michel glowed with happiness.

Chapter 16

Today was the church summer social and there were many people present. It was a great opportunity to see the neighbors that were usually too busy to socialize. There were cakes and other confections that the ladies had brought to share. One farmer had managed to keep ice from the winter to use for cool drinks and so that ice cream could be made in the new devices that were becoming the fashion. The ice had been cut in large blocks out of the St. Lawrence River during the previous winter and had been buried under many bales of straw in his barn just for this occasion. Walter, and the rest of Nikita's family soon joined in the festivities. Paul, Walter and Seymour ensured that everyone got a refreshing cold drink and some freshly churned ice cream. Father Dupree also made his way over to them too and congratulated the young couple on their betrothal once more.

Nikita noticed that the young men and the young women of the parish were all staring at her. She did her best to ignore this uncomfortable fact and clung to Michel's arm with determination. The young men were, of course, wondering how long this beauty had been among them unnoticed and if they stood a chance with her. Their hopes were completely crushed when one young rogue noticed the gold ring on Nikita's ungloved left hand and the matching hoop that hung next to Michel's crucifix. It was whispered that the young couple had been seen exiting Father Dupree's residence a few minutes before Mass. Everyone knew that these things meant they were officially betrothed. When they heard about that, the young women began tittering behind their hands in anticipation.

It was known by most of the congregation that Elena Lapierre and her Papa had arrived this morning just in time for the service. Elena didn't go anywhere, not even to church, without making some kind of an entrance. Her voice had carried to the very front when she had entered the building earlier, even though her papa Jacques had done his best to get her to be quiet. They had sat at the back of the crowded church, so it was not known if she had seen Michel and this new girl yet. It was common knowledge that Elena considered Michel to be her "property". It was also well known that Michel did not feel that way about Elena.

Several times people in the congregation had seen Michel blush with embarrassment as a result of Elena's "attentions" and seen him try to push her away. They all felt sorry for Michel at those times. Elena couldn't seem to see that her public displays of affection made him very uncomfortable. However, she wasn't one to be easily dissuaded from what she wanted unless someone was brutally blunt with her. Since they all knew that Michel was too much of a gentleman to treat any woman that way, that meant that today had the potential to give Elena quite a shock. They couldn't wait to see what would happen when she discovered that Michel was betrothed to the beautiful blond holding onto his arm.

Madeleine looked up from her pleasant conversation with Belinda and Father Dupree and spotted Elena making her way determinedly towards the happy group. Madeleine cringed inwardly. She'd never really liked Elena, and had often been intimidated by her temper. Today, though, the expression on the girls' face today was scary.

What will the child do?' Madeleine wondered. Better yet, how will Michel handle this? And Nikita? How would she be affected?'

Elena had obviously heard the news that Michel was betrothed to someone and she was stalking towards them. Madeleine decided that she'd better warn her son. She nudged Michel and when he looked in the direction she was indicating, he groaned in dismay. Nikita noticed, of course, and asked what the problem was.

"Do you remember me telling you about Elena earlier?" Michel whispered in her ear.

"Yes, of course. Is she here now?" Nikita whispered back, looking around. Oh, she hoped this wouldn't be too unpleasant.'

"She's headed our way right now. In fact." Michel said and was abruptly cut off by a high-pitched shriek.

"MICHEL SAMUELLE!!!!!" a strident female voice trumpeted over the murmur of the crowd. "WE NEED TO TALK!!!!"

Michel groaned and Nikita patted his arm for reassurance. She took a deep breath and prepared herself for a nasty onslaught.

"You're MINE, Michel Samuelle!! YOU ALWAYS HAVE BEEN MINE!!!! How DARE you become betrothed to some Irish TROLLOP fresh off the boat!! She's BEWITCHED you!! I DEMAND YOU CORRECT THIS SITUATION IMMEDIATELY!!!" Elena screamed loud enough for all to hear.

Nikita blanched. How could this girl be so cruel? And how was Michel going to handle this?'

Everyone gasped in shock. Father Dupree crossed himself and looking towards Heaven, began to pray silently.

Belinda and Seymour exchanged glances with each other. So this was the "famous" Elena!! Now they would see what sort of man their Nikita was going to marry. They didn't envy him having to deal with such a shrew.

Madeleine groaned. Wasn't it just like Elena to make a scene?'

Paul, Walter, Simone and the Samuelle children stood by like the rest of the congregation-in shock!! This day was taking a definite turn for the worst. Michel had his hands full, and they all waited to see what he would do.

The entire congregation fell silent as well, as they waited in the church courtyard to see what would happen next. This was the worst scene anyone could remember Elena making. She thought if she was loud enough and demanding enough she'd get her way. Usually because she did. Especially with her Papa, who spoiled her terribly.

All eyes focused on the scene before them. Elena Lapierre was standing in front of Michel Samuelle and his beautiful fiancee with her fists perched on her hips, her feet shoulder width apart. Her long, dark hair was wildly strewn about her flushed, angry face as she glared menacingly at the blond beside him.

Nikita wasn't even paying attention to the harridan in front of her. She was too busy watching Michel's face. His green eyes widened and the nostrils of his patrician nose flared with anger. His lips thinned as he pressed them together and his jaw clenched. She could feel the tension in his arm where she still held it too. It was obvious that he was very angry, and for a brief second, she felt afraid of what he might do.

Madeleine was watching her son too. Her heart went out to him and his lovely fiancee. She couldn't believe what she'd just heard. Elena had gone too far this time and Michel was justified in being angry. Letting that anger control him, however, wouldn't help and she knew that he knew that. She felt it wise to remind him.

"Take a deep breath Michel and calm down before you speak." Madeleine urged her son in a quiet voice, as she leaned towards him. "Anger does not help solve a problem, and you know that."

Michel nodded at his mother and obeyed her. He then turned towards Nikita and gently lifted her hand to his lips and kissed it.

"I am sorry about this Nikita," Michel said in a soft, sad voice, while he gazed deeply into her eyes. "You don't deserve this."

"It is all right Michel," Nikita responded, smiling lovingly at him. "As long as I have you I can endure anything."

Michel smiled at her and squeezed both her hands in his. Then he released her hands and slowly he stepped forward, in order to turn to the unpleasant task at hand.

"Elena, calme toi--calm yourself. You do not own me; you never did. You've always just assumed that you and I would marry because that is what you wanted. I've never wanted to marry you--I don't love you-I never did. In fact, I'm not interested in you at all. I've tried to make you realize that many times, but you would never listen. Elena, please give up this obsession of yours. I love Nikita and I am going to marry her." Michel softly stated, staring at the disheveled shrew in front of him.

Elena stubbornly glared at Michel. "No, I REFUSE to accept this. You are MINE, Michel Samuelle. Everyone here knows this. This blond has bewitched you!"

That was all Michel could take. He grabbed Elena by the arm, his anger flaring slightly. "No, Elena," Michel stated, his voice hardening. "Everyone here knows that you are deluded . You're making a fool of yourself. I've tried to be kind, but you don't respond to anything but bluntness. Listen to me very carefully. I love Nikita and I will marry her . No one else. Do you hear me? As for what you called my fianceeyou will apologize to her now , do you understand??"

"I will not apologize, Michel Samuelle!!" Elena shrieked, glaring into his eyes.

"Elena." a gruff voice said behind them, "I'll handle this."

Michel looked up and Elena turned around to see her father glaring at Michel. Elena grinned smugly.

Papa would see that everything went just as she wanted. He always had before.'

"Take your hand off of my daughter, Samuelle. Elena, go get in the wagon, we're going home," Jacques Lapierre said. "I will be there in a minute."

Michel dropped his hand from Elena's arm, but instead of meekly acquiescing, he glared back at Jacques and said, "No, she stays. Elena owes my fiancee an apology. I hold you responsible for your daughter's behavior, sir. You've spoiled her so much that she thinks she can get away with acting like a shrew until she gets her own way. Her behavior will make her an old maid. Not one of the young men here want anything to do with her. Ask them if you doubt me. I would sooner become a priest than marry her. Elena's manipulations may work on you sir, but they won't work on me. Nothing you do or say will change my mind on this. My Nikita is a lady and I love her . I will marry her . Elena will apologize for her rudeness. I demand it."

Jacques could hear the whispers and snickering around him as Michel spoke. Everyone was waiting to see how he would respond, he realized.

Looking into Michel's eyes, Jacques saw the steely determination there. He had heard what Elena had said about Nikita. He had to admit that what she'd said had been awful. He realized that Michel was acting correctly in defending this lady's honor.

Jacques had never believed Elena's claims that Michel would marry her. Michel had never demonstrated to him that he loved his daughter, and now he saw that he had been right. When Michel looked at this Irish girl, his face glowed with happiness. That was how a young man should look at a young lady when they were in love. He also realized that Michel was right about what he had said about Elena. He had spoiled her and her behavior today had been atrocious.

Jacques looked over at Nikita and felt ashamed. This beautiful young lady did not deserve this treatment. He turned towards his daughter and pushed her towards Nikita.

"Apologize now, Elena." Jacques said sternly.

"Papa, I will not ." Elena stubbornly responded, glaring at Nikita.

Elena couldn't believe this was happening. First Michel chooses this blond strumpet over me, and then he said those awful things about me. He never wanted to marry me? No. I refuse to believe it. He never loved me? Why wouldn't he love me? How dare he say that! He'd called me a shrew? Me? He would rather become a priest than marry me? How humiliating! And now Papa is making me apologize? This is unbelievable!'

Elena could hear the snickers around her and she knew that everyone was listening intently. Her world was crashing around her, but Elena was determined to hold onto her pride. She would not back down on this.

"Apologize now Elena, or you will look even more ridiculous in front of the entire parish than you do now." Jacques warned.

"Papa !!!!!!" Elena responded; her eyes widening in disbelief, but she saw that her father would not be swayed.

"Oh, very well," Elena said, looking at Nikita with disdain written all over her face. "I apologize, Nikita." She said, her tone conveying that she didn't really meaning it at all. "Please forgive me."

Michel stepped aside, turning to watch Nikita, patiently waiting to see what she would do.

Nikita looked at Michel and then at Elena. Nikita supposed that she should be angry with Elena. The girl had publicly insulted her because she was jealous. She closely examined Elena's face and saw, with a flash of insight, that this beautiful girl's face was flushed with anger but the tears in her sad, dark eyes were tears of hurt and disappointment.

She probably does love Michel in her own way,' thought Nikita. He doesn't love her though. He loves me.'

Nikita realized then, that she couldn't possibly hate Elena. All she felt towards the angry young woman in front of her was compassion.

How sad to love someone who doesn't love you back. Poor girl, I hope she can find someone who will love her!'

Nikita spoke quietly to both her mother and Madeleine who had both been standing by her side. Then she turned and walked gracefully towards Elena. Everyone waited to see what this newcomer would do.

"I forgive you, Elena." Nikita stated in a calm, soft voice. "We'll not speak of this incident again. Hopefully, in time you and I can be friends. I'd like that very much."

Then Nikita smiled sweetly and leaned forward, softly kissing Elena's cheek and giving her a quick hug before Elena could respond. Nikita then quickly turned and then made her way to Michel. He kissed her forehead and hugged her fiercely. Michel looked up to see that Father Dupree was watching them and saw that the priest was smiling broadly.

Chapter 17

Elena stood there in shock. In her heart, she knew that she had acted badly towards Nikita, but her pride wouldn't let her admit it. This beautiful Irish girl's presence had dashed all her dreams of marrying Michel. Yet this girl had instantly forgiven her terrible behavior, kissing her and saying that she'd like them to be friends? Incredible! She knew she could never have done the same thing. She was so surprised that she made no objection when her Papa gently grabbed her by her shoulders and steered her towards their wagon to go home.

"I'm sorry too, Mademoiselle" Jacques Lapierre said, looking at Nikita as they turned to leave. "Thank you for being so kind." Jacques was amazed at Nikita's reaction to his daughter's abominable behavior.

What a sweet young lady! Michel has chosen his bride wisely.'

Nikita turned from Michel's embrace to graciously acknowledge Jacques' apology with a slight nod of her head and a sweet smile. Jacques noticed that when Nikita smiled, her eyes lit up with such kindness that he was doubly ashamed of his daughter's behavior.

This Irish girl looksalmost angelic! Elena needs to change,' he resolved and she needs to begin today.'

He was not looking forward to the battle he knew he would be facing to accomplish that. He sighed. He also knew he had no one to blame but himself.

****************************************************

Father Dupree watched Elena and Jacques leave and sighed in relief. He looked over at Michel as he hugged Nikita and smiled broadly. This sweet Irish girl had diffused what could have been a nasty confrontation. Elena had been extremely rude to her, but Nikita had responded in a loving manner. The good priest sincerely hoped and prayed that Elena would change her ways and learn a lesson from today's events. He was thankful too that his friend Michel had found such a lovely young lady. Father Dupree was sure that Michel was truly blest.

In the meantime, Madeleine was talking to Belinda.

"Nikita is a lovely young woman. I can't wait to get to know her better, but from what we've seen today, you've raised a wonderful girl. We'll be proud to have her as part of our family," Madeleine said.

"Thank you Madeleine. She's my pride and joy. I'm pleased that she's found such a fine young man as your Michel to wed." Belinda said in response. "I wasn't sure that she'd find anyone like him, especially so far from home. He seems to be everything a mother could want for her daughter."

Then Belinda paused and changed the topic. "I hope we can be friends, Madeleine. I'd like that a lot even if our children weren't betrothed."

Madeleine beamed with pride at Belinda's words. "Thank you for saying that about Michel. He's a good man and I know he adores Nikita already. I've never seen him look so happy. And yes, I'd like us to be friends too, Belinda. Very much. You must remember though, that this is home now, and you are family."

The two women hugged each other and smiled companionably. Simone stood to one side and observed this pleasant conversation. She and Madeleine had known each other since she was a child. She adored Madeleine as much as she had her own mother. It was good to see these two older women becoming friends, but she was especially pleased for Belinda's sake.

It can't be easy to leave all you had ever known behind and come to such a far away place on your own with two children. Nothree. poor Belinda. losing Karen at sea like that.'

Simone thought. Belinda is a strong woman.'

************************************************

The two families left the church and together made their way to the Samuelle farm. The women all worked together in Madeleine's kitchen, laughing and talking animatedly, while they made lunch. In the meantime, the men sat on chairs on the porch and talked about farming experiences.

After lunch, Michel and Nikita went for a walk in the woods with Monique tagging behind. It was clear that Monique idolized Nikita already. She kept grabbing Nikita's free hand and talking to her non-stop. Michel was amused at his little sister's antics and delighted that Nikita was fitting into his family so well. He noted that Nikita's face fairly glowed while talking to his favorite sister and he realized with a start that she loved children. Michel instinctively knew that she would be a wonderful mother.

A mother to my children!' He smiled broadly and his heart skipped a beat at the wondrous thought.

They walked for some time and then Monique stopped to sit on the ground to tie her shoes. Michel and Nikita sat on a fallen tree, on which Michel had carefully spread with his jacket so that Nikita's dress wouldn't be soiled. He sat behind her, with his arms wrapped around her and happily listened to her chatting with his little sister. After a while, Monique fell asleep on the grass and the two of them were finally alone. With one hand, Michel began playing with tendrils of Nikita's shining hair that had fallen loose from her chignon. He reverently fingered her soft tresses and deeply inhaled the lilac fragrance that he had noticed on Nikita when he'd first told her he loved her. Michel began reigning gentle open-mouthed kisses on the back of her neck. Nikita shivered and then turned around and placed her hands on his broad shoulders and gazed lovingly into his emerald eyes. Her heart had been pounding erratically at his touch and his kisses were driving her to distraction.

"Michel, we have to talk," she said sweetly.

"Oui, ma chere?" Michel said.

Michel gazed deeply into her sky blue eyes. He started to fantasize about making love to her. about seeing a child of theirs being born and Michel heard his breath catching in his throat.

"Michel? Are you listening to me? I need to ask you something." Nikita said looking at him with a slight smile.

He smiled softly at her serious tone and studied her features carefully as if to imprint them on his mind. Then, unable to resist her, he started to reign down the same open-mouthed kisses on the side of her throat and under her chin.

Nikita shivered, and then reluctantly stopped him and moved his face up to hers so that she could see his beautiful emerald green eyes once more.

"This house you're going to buildwill it take a long time to finish, my love?" Nikita asked, slightly breathless from desire.

His kisses were sweet torture, and she wanted so much more. She too, had been thinking about children thanks to Monique's presence.

Michel grinned. "Impatient to be wed, ma petite ?"

"Oui, Michel. Very much," and then she leaned towards him and kissed his lips softly.

Michel groaned, instantly on fire for his beloved and held her to himself fiercely, deepening the kiss.

What this woman does to me! I wish we were married right now, my angel. What I would do if we were!' Michel thought with a small groan as he remembered the glorious sight she had presented in the window the other night.

He knew that building a house would be a long and arduous task, and he was willing to do it in order to be able to have a home with her, but he too was becoming impatient.

Amazing! My life has changed in only three days thanks to this gorgeous woman. How am I going to be able to wait months to make her mine? And if months seem long-and they do-how am I going to be able to wait a whole year?'

He knew it would probably take at least a year to build a house all by himself as well as helping with the chores, the harvest and everything else he usually did around the farm. Maybe even longer. Michel found he didn't like that thought at all. If only someone else could build the house for them. And why not? They could afford it.' He couldn't wait to tell her so. Now is the time to tell her about the money and what it could do for their new life together,' he decided.

"Nikita, what if I told you we could afford to have our house built for us and that it would mean we could be married sooner? Would that make you happy, my love?" Michel asked gently, breaking from the kiss to look searchingly into her eyes.

"Oh yes, Michel! But how?" Nikita gasped.

"Well, I have saved all the money I've ever earned towards this day, even without knowing it. Beyond that though, my uncle just left me a lot of money. You, my darling, will be the wife of a fairly wealthy man." He said studying her reaction intently.

"Oh yes, Michel being able to marry you sooner would make me very happy." Nikita replied with a joyous smile on her face. Then the rest of what he'd said registered and she looked at him in surprise. "You're wealthy? I hope you don't think that makes any difference to me. I would love you even if you had nothing at all."

Michel held her soft face in both his hands and looked into her brilliant blue eyes, studying her face intently. He couldn't see any deceit in her at all, and he chastened himself for even looking for it. All he could see was love shining back at him and he hugged her fiercely, believing her.

"Let's wake up Monique and go back to the house. Papa and Walter will be able to help us plan what to do next. It will probably mean a trip to Montreal to find craftsmen to build our house." Michel said. Our house.' He liked the sound of that.

Our house.' Nikita closed her eyes and tried to envision it. It would be a place that they would fill with their love and laughter, living there as husband and wife; having children together. She couldn't wait! She hopped down off the fallen tree and crouched down to wake Monique. Together, the three of them headed back to the Samuelle farm.

Chapter 18

After the group had arrived at the Samuelle farm after Mass, Seymour had joined Pierre and Claude at the task of looking after the horses. Now that lunch was over, the three boys sat on the porch talking.

Pierre and Claude were not quite sure what to make of this newcomer before them. They didn't know many Irishmen, other than Walter and they supposed he was all right. Maman and Papa liked him and Michel thought highly of him. Seymour sure didn't look anything like his beautiful sister Nikita, except for his blue eyes. They hadn't really got a chance to talk to her except at lunch because Michel wouldn't let her out of his sight. They couldn't blame him though. None of the girls from school were as pretty as she was. In fact, none of the girls in the entire parish were even half as pretty as Nikita.

"What's your school like here?" Seymour asked shyly. "Is it very large? Tell me about it, please."

"It's all right," Pierre said. "It's one room and all the grades are in it together. I'm sure it's a lot different from the schools in Ireland."

"Well," said Seymour, "the school I went to had several rooms and we were taught by nuns and priests."

Pierre snorted. "Our teacher isn't a nun, but maybe she should have been. She's an old lady."

"She's not that old, Pierre, she's only three years older than Ovila Provonost, and he's eighteen. He's going to marry her in August. I feel sorry for him; she was a bossy teacher. I wouldn't want a wife like that." Claude said.

"Oh well, that's his worry. I suppose we'll get a new teacher this year then." Pierre responded to his brother. "She might even be pretty."

The boys all laughed and soon fell to talking about other things as well.

**********************************************

Walter and Paul quietly nodded to each other and wandered off in silence towards the barn.

Paul was impressed with Michel's fiancee and he could understand why Michel had fallen for her so quickly. Nikita was beautiful and kind just as Michel had claimed. Even though her looks were indeed stunning, there seemed to be a lot more to her than her appearance.

Paul knew that not many people would have been as nice to Elena as Nikita had been under the circumstances that had taken place today. He could tell that Madeleine liked the girl already and that his other children seemed to enjoy her company too; Monique in particular. That impressed Paul even more. Monique was usually shy with strangers. Nikita and Monique had instantly become friends and it was obvious to Paul that Nikita would make a fine mother one day. His eldest son was a lucky young man.

Paul looked at Walter and finally spoke, "I'm impressed, Walter. Nikita handled herself very well today."

"I'm impressed with Michel too, Paul. He's is a fine young man. Simone and I have always liked him and we're looking forward to having him as a part of our family. He handled himself very well today and everything he said to Jacques was true. What really surprises me though is how well Jacques took it. It was about time someone said something to his face about that girl's behavior. We've all commented about her behind her back for quite a while." Walter said in response.

"Merci , Walter. You knew, I suppose that Michel plans to build a house for himself and Nikita. I also understand that you know about the money." Paul replied, changing the topic.

That girl was the last thing he wanted to talk about. Now that he knew for sure that his son wouldn't be marrying Elena he felt a great relief.

"Yes, Michel told me. I have an idea I'd like to put to Michel, Paul. Let me tell you about it and see what you think." Walter replied, understanding instantly.

"What is it Walter?" Paul asked curiously.

"Well Paul, the boy will no doubt be very busy the next few months. The harvest and all. Then winter will be here. Then there's the sugaring. Shortly after that, spring will be here again. That doesn't leave a whole lot of time to build a house. It leaves even less time to court Nikita." Walter responded.

"Very true. What are you proposing?" Paul queried.

"If Michel wants to, I will accompany him to Montreal and we'll find good, reliable craftsmen to build this house for him and Nikita. That way the two of them can get married sooner. I think I was wrong to insist on a courtship of a year. That's going to be far too long. Sure'n the looks that pass between the two of them could light a fire that would burn all day and night. What do you think?" Walter said.

"I think you're right. I know I like the idea and if I know Michel, he's thinking along those lines already. Actually, as far as I'm concerned they can be wed right away if that's what they want. They're more than welcome to live here with us until their house is built. The way he looks at her, I know it won't be long until I'm a grandfather!! All I can say is that I'll be proud to have that girl as a daughter-in-law."

Walter snickered. "Yes, I noticed his reaction to her all the way back here from Montreal. I hoped it would come to this. He's ready to settle down and now he even seems happy about doing it."

"Going to Montreal for building help and materials sounds like a good idea, but first we'll have to pry him off her arm." Paul laughed. "I've never seen him concentrate on anything as hard as he has been on those big, blue eyes of hers."

Both men laughed.

"Who could blame him though?" Paul continued. "She is certainly a beauty! She would mesmerize any young man. "

"She is a beauty," said Walter. "but Belinda says she considers herself to be plain . Can you imagine that?"

Paul just stared at Walter in shock and Walter laughed again.

When Paul found his voice again he said, "You can't be serious! Now that I've met her, I understand completely why Michel didn't want to waste any time becoming betrothed to her. The other young men at Mass today looked totally bereft when they found out that she was already taken. I almost felt sorry for them."

Walter laughed again. "I've always known Michel was a smart lad," he responded. "This proves it. I'm relieved actually Paul. Now I won't have to fight off packs of young men. The fact that she and Michel are betrothed will solve the problem for me. Not one of those young men would dare to try and come between Michel and his angel. He could best any one of them with one hand tied behind his back."

******************************************

An hour later, the men had finished their promenade around the property and had found themselves at the paddock near the barn. They leaned on the fence and continued their talk.

"Michel tells us that Nikita's birthday is coming up this week," said Paul. "Madeleine and I thought about giving her one of our best mares and a small buggy for her and Michel to get around in. It would be a birthday present and a wedding present all in one. We have the buggy behind the barn. We were going to give it to Marie before she decided to enter the convent."

"That's an excellent idea Paul, but only if you let Simone and I buy the buggy. One of your horses is a magnificent gift all on it's own." Walter replied.

"Done." said Paul and the two men shook hands.

Walter grinned as he noticed three figures approaching them in the distance. "Looks like Monique wore the happy couple out already. They're coming over here. Shall we tell them about Nikita's gift now?"

"Yes, that's a good idea. Michel can pick out whatever mare he wants her to have." Paul responded.

The young couple joined them then, and the two older men told them about Nikita's gift. Nikita was overwhelmed. She shyly leaned towards Paul and kissed him on the cheek.

"Thank you, Monsieur Samuelle," she said. "No one has ever given me such a lovely gift. Thank you too Uncle Walter for the buggy. Nikita kissed Walter's cheek also. "Both of you are too kind."

"No, Nikita. Not Monsieur Samuelle . You must call me Papa and Madeleine will be your second Maman . You are family already, ma fille-my daughter. The wedding will just make it official." Paul said smiling broadly.

Nikita blushed and said, "Merci, Papa Samuelle."

Michel grinned at his Papa and then taking Nikita's hand, he led his beloved to the paddock. Monique skipped along behind them. When they got there, Michel held up one hand motioning her to wait while he slipped into the barn to grab a halter. Nikita watched as Michel entered the paddock and slipped the halter over the head of a beautiful black mare that he then brought up to the fence for her approval.

These Canadiens are beautiful horses, even if they were unlike any I ever saw in Ireland,' Nikita thought.

The mare Michel selected was quiet and had a small white patch on her forehead. Michel held the mare's halter while Nikita stroked the beast's gentle looking face.

Nikita smiled in delight and immediately said, "I'm going to name her Bridget."

"Why that name?" Michel asked curiously. He gazed lovingly into her face, which was glowing with happiness. He was totally transfixed by how very lovely she was.

Mine,' he thought. She's mine. I can't believe this beautiful woman loves me!'

"Saint Bridget is Ireland's patron saint of brides. This horse and buggy will be the first thing that is 'ours'. Somehow it seems appropriate." Nikita said smiling shyly.

Michel just grinned. "Bridget it is, ma belle . Would you mind if I talked to Papa and Walter alone now about building our house, mon cherie?"

"Of course, darling," Nikita said, leaning over the fence and kissing him softly on the lips. "I'll go and see the ladies in your Maman's kitchen."

Michel stood and watched Nikita walk back to the house, and groaned as he watched her gently swaying hips. He hoped that Papa and Walter would approve of his idea of going to Montreal to find craftsmen. He would need their assistance. The sooner this house was built, the better.

A man can only take so much,' he thought.

Chapter 19

The drive home from church today seemed longer than it normally did and Jacques Lapierre tolerated his daughters' silence until they reached their farm. Elena was not only sulking, she was tapping her foot angrily.

"That's enough, daughter," Jacques finally said. "You behaved terribly today. Michel was right, you do need to learn to act more like a lady or you will end up as an old maid."

"You mean, I need to act like her ," Elena spat out vehemently, as she alighted from the wagon and stormed into their house.

Jacques silently followed his impertinent progeny into the parlor and stood in the doorway observing Elena's increasingly pretentious behavior. Perhaps now was the time to be totally honest with her. As much as Elena could tolerate, anyway.

"If, by "her", you mean Mademoiselle O'Hara, then yes," Jacques said. "How she brought herself to be so charitable to you, after your terrible behavior, I cannot imagine. How dare you call that fine young lady a "trollop"!! That was very rude, and you know it."

"Accept it Elena. Michel has found a fine girl to be his wife. It is very obvious that he loves her-and not you. I have never seen a young man look at a young lady with so much love on his face as he has on his when he looks at her. Not once did he ever look that way at you, daughter. He's right when he said he was never yours. You cannot force him to be yours, either. I'm sorry to say that I was ashamed of you today. You made us both look like fools in front of the entire parish."

Elena blinked in shock at the rebuke from her Papa. He had never talked to her that way before. Elena didn't say a word, but her eyes narrowed and her mind raced furiously.

Papa is wrong. Michel was mine and I will get him back. That Irlandais-Irish-trollop hasn't won yet. I just need to wait and make a plan. She'll wish she'd never come to New France when I get through with her.'

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The very next day, Michel, Paul and Walter headed for Montreal and their first stop was the church rectory at Notre Dame d'Anges --Our Lady of Angels. The two older men were convinced that Father Philippe Bouchard would know the most honest and skilled craftsmen in the area. They had convinced Michel that he would need as many of these men as he could get as well as several skilled laborers in order to complete his new house before the winter. Michel was determined to assist these men in any way he could in the time left to him after his farm chores.

Before they left for Montreal, Paul took Michel aside and talked to him privately.

"Michel, if you want you and Nikita could get married right away and live with the family at our farm until you get the house finished." Paul said.

Michel considered the offer for a few minutes and then politely declined.

"No thank you Papa. I appreciate what you're offering us, but when I make love to my wife for the first time, I want it to be in our own home." Michel said seriously.

Michel doubted that the complete privacy he and Nikita would want would be available with the rest of the family in their beds inches away through the walls. The thought of being overheard while he poured out his passion for his angel for the first time made him shiver in disgust.

Paul grinned. He saw that shiver and could understand exactly how Michel felt.

"Besides, I'm sure that Simone, Belinda and Nikita have a lot of work to do to prepare, and I wouldn't want to rush Nikita in her preparations. She might regret it later." Michel added.

****************************************************

When they arrived in Montreal, the men met with Father Bouchard, who was more than happy to help them when he learned the circumstances surrounding their request. He congratulated Michel and warmly greeted his brother-in-law and his neighbor. Then he gave them a list of craftsmen in the city that he felt were highly skilled along with being hard working, honest and reliable.

"You're doing the right thing, Michel," Uncle Philippe said. "Can I make a small request?"

"Certainly, Uncle Philippe. What is it?" said Michel.

"May I assist your Father Dupree with the wedding ceremony?" he asked. "If he's agreeable to that, of course."

"I have no objection Uncle Philippe. I will, however, need to ask the good Father first, though." Michel replied. "And thank you. We would be most honored. Even if you do not help, will you come to the wedding? And will Marie be able to obtain permission to attend? It would mean a great deal to me if she could."

"Of course I will come, Michel. I shall look into the situation with Marie for you." Father Bouchard said.

"Would you tell Marie something for me, Uncle Philippe?" Michel asked. "I understand that I can't tell her myself right now. The sister we met on the way in said that Marie was under a vow of silence for the time being and that she couldn't even have a visitor. Not even me."

"Certainlywhat is it you wish me to tell her?" said Father Philippe curiously.

"Tell her that I'm sorry I laughed at her the other day. Tell her that her dream was correctI found my angel. She'll understand the rest." Michel said smiling.

Chapter 20

The three men arrived back at the Samuelle farm two days later with several master craftsmen and their workers in tow; as well as wagons full of lumber, tools and other building supplies. They had also brought tents that the men would be living in while they worked. The tents were pitched in a field that was adjacent to the section of Michel's property where the house would be built. These men would also make furniture for every room of the house.

Michel, of course, would be responsible for their buying their food, although they would prepare it themselves. He drove one of the farm wagons into St. Cecile and bartered with the local merchants for the goods that would be required, arranging delivery on a daily basis. It was another expense, but one that he was more than willing to take on if it meant that he and Nikita could be married sooner.

Over the next several weeks, one particular local girl became very aware of Michel's plans.

Elena was incensed.

He's really going through with marrying that trollop! Unbelievable!! Why else would he have all these men working so hard building a house for them?' She was puzzled though. How is Michel able to afford this?' Obviously, she didn't know as much about the Samuelle's fortunes as she thought she did.

They must be rich,' she thought. They don't live like they are, but that's the only way that Michel could afford to have so many men come out to build a house for him.' She had parked her buggy on the road taking in all the activity before her and tapped her foot against the footboard angrily. This should all be for him and me, not that Irish tramp. Well, that will change, if I have any say about it.'

As she watched, Elena spotted Michel walking among the workers. He wasn't alone though. Nikita was walking throughout the site, holding his hand and inspecting all the progress. Elena watched as the two young lovers went to sit under a nearby tree, and Michel rested his head in Nikita's lap. Elena could hear the girl's laughter and it angered her further.

Some time later, Elena watched the young couple leave the shelter of the shade tree and walk hand in hand towards the edge of the forest. Nikita was resting her bright head on Michel's shoulder and Elena narrowed her eyes in disgust, but when she saw the two lovers kiss her rage exploded. She cracked the whip at her horse and forced her poor mare to take her home faster than she usually would. Elena's buggy bounced precariously on the hog-backed country road but she didn't even seem to realize how quickly she was traveling.

***********************************************

After she arrived back at her father's farm, Elena looked around carefully to make sure that her father was not in sight. Then she sought out her father's two hired hands, Hillinger and Wellman. Usually both men were beneath her notice, and Elena sniffed disdainfully at the thought of the two Anglais'. She sighed as she realized that if her plan were to succeed, she would need their help.

Hillinger and Wellman had been caught stealing from the home of a wealthy merchant in Montreal. Papa had bought their freedom in return for their labor on the farm. Now they would do anything she told them too, if they valued their jobs that is. More than that, she controlled their lives. All she would have to say is that one of them-or both-had tried to touch her and Papa would flog them within an inch of their lives. They couldn't leave until their three years of indentured service were over, and then they could get un passeport' to leave New France. When that day arrived, they would be able to go back to France, and from there they would have to find their own passage to England.

Finally, she found the men, in the barn, cleaning out the horse stalls. "Wellman, Hillinger, look after my horse for me and then I need to talk to you," Elena ordered imperiously.

Elena stood in the barn and waited impatiently for the two men to complete this task. When they returned she said, "I have a special job for you both. I want you to abduct a young Irish woman who has taken my beau from me. You are to leave her tied and gagged up in my Papa's cabin in the woods until she either dies of hunger and thirst, or the Indians find her. If they do, they can keep her. I really don't care one way or another what becomes of her. I'm sure the Indians will be fascinated with her looks. Either way, she'll be out of my way and I'll get my beau back. Tomorrow, you are to come with me and I'll point her out to you."

"Miss? We really don't want to do anything to get into trouble. All we want is to work here and when our time is done to go home to England." Wellman said speaking up hesitantly.

Elena just glared at him. "If you don't do this for me, I'll tell my Papa that the two of you tried to rape me. After all, he's not here right now, and all I'd have to do is rip parts of my dress and it would look like you two tried just that, now wouldn't it?"

Gray Wellman's complexion turned a pasty white and he stared at the ground. He was very sure that Miss Elena would do just as she threatened in order to get her own way.

"And don't even think about trying to warn the Irish tramp. You will do what I say or you will live to regret it. and when Papa gets through with you..." Elena said, trailing off her sentence, and leaving her meaning unclear but threatening just the same.

The two Englishmen looked at each other and said nothing. They did not like or respect this loud and angry young French girl, but they had no choice but to obey her. Jacques would certainly believe anything she said. They had heard the story of what had happened at church the day that Michel Samuelle had become betrothed to the Irish girl named Nikita. The entire parish knew. They also had heard the way this mistress of theirs had acted.

Elena left the two men and went into the house. Wellman looked at Hillinger and said, "Well, we both know who her beau' is, don't we? Michel Samuelle. The mistress doesn't understand yet what the entire parish already knows. Samuelle doesn't love her. You would think that would be obvious to her by now. How can she be so blind?"

"Yes," Hillinger replied, "Mademoiselle Lapierre is not who he wants for a bride. He wants the Irish girl. And no wonder. Have you seen her? I've never seen such a beautiful girl. I heard how kind she was to Mademoiselle too and yet now she wants to do this? I really do not want to be involved, but this mistress of ours will make our lives miserable if we don't follow her orders."

"I know. I've seen the Irish girl, too. You are right about Mademoiselle Lapierre, of course, but you heard her. She will tell her Papa we tried to rape her. We have no choice but to do this. The question is, how? We can't just grab this Nikita in front of her family and Samuelle. They would probably come at us with guns," Wellman stated.

"We'll have to take the young Irish miss alone and by surprise. Then we'll take her to Monsieur Lapierre's cabin just like Mademoiselle Lapierre wants. It's such an obvious place to take her though. It's sure to be the first place they look. I refuse to let Mademoiselle Lapierre get away with this. Some how we have to show that she's involved in this too." Hillinger responded.

"What do you mean?" Wellman asked.

"If we are caught, who do you think will take all the blame?" Hillinger queried. "Mademoiselle Lapierre will make it seem like it's all our fault."

"You're right. First we need to study this Nikita and her family and plan to grab her as soon as she is alone." Wellman stated. "We'll have to see if we can put her in a situation where she'll be surprised and then make our move. Perhaps after that we can let Samuelle know where she is so that no real harm comes to her."